Wonford Road Bus Gate Delivers Safer, Cleaner Journeys for Exeter
New figures show that in the first month of enforcement (October 2025), 5,183 motorists were issued written warnings and 69 were issued penalty notices for repeat offences after ignoring filter signs at the new Wonford Road Bus Gate.
These numbers demonstrate both the scale of previous non-compliance and the effectiveness of camera enforcement in restoring safety and priority to pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport.
The figures were revealed in a recent Freedom of Information request to Devon County Council. The Wonford Road bus gate is a key part of Exeter’s E9 cycle and walking route between Newcourt and the City Centre.
Exeter City Council have confirmed that the creation of the E9 route is contributing to Exeter’s air quality reaching legal limits for the first time. It shows how bold action on traffic and travel can deliver measurable public health benefits alongside safer streets.
Devon County Council deserves thanks for ensuring the Wonford Road bus gate is delivering benefits. Their commitment to enforcement has provided a real example of how effective such schemes can be, with road safety and public health for local people the clear winners.
James Diamond, Chair of Exeter Cycling Campaign, said: “We want to thank Devon County Council for listening to residents and for taking bold steps to make travel by foot, wheels and bike safer and more attractive. The Wonford Road filter shows what can be achieved when enforcement is taken seriously. With the E9 route helping Exeter’s air quality reach legal limits, we look forward to further improvements across the city’s network, so that safe and affordable journeys become the everyday norm for everyone.”
Local residents of Wonford Road are already seeing the benefits: – A mother of two highlighted the transformation: “Before, this was a rat-run with speeding traffic and fumes through our windows. Now our house is cleaner, and my children can walk and bike to school safely.”
– A retired local cyclist added: “I am grateful for the reduced traffic, plus people drive more cautiously.”
– Her husband, who drives, cycles and walks, said: “I feel safer walking along the narrow footpaths and crossing Wonford Road.”
– A school teacher commuting through the bus gate noted: “It’s great to see more children walking and riding. Ordinary people are being prioritised, and Wonford Road has come alive as part of my neighbourhood.”
ENDS 13 November 2025
Notes to editors Contact for enquiries: Lorna Devenish 07900 162187 Photo caption: A woman on bike cycles through the Wonford Road bus gate